RTE Pundit and organ donor campaigner Joe Brolly will be in Mayo on St Valentine’s Day, February 14, to join Mayo Roscommon Hospice and the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail committee to launch their three-day walking festival.
The 8km warm up walk will leave from the Clogher Heritage Centre at 10.30am. The trail itself will run from Friday March 20 to Sunday March 22 and will take in the wild and rugged Mayo landscape. It is a 61km route that trails across Mayo, from the historic village of Balla in east Mayo to the picturesque town land of Murrisk at the foothills of the ancient mountain of Croagh Patrick on the shores of Clew Bay in west Mayo. “We are thrilled to be joining forces with the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail committee for this fabulous walk this year. Events like this one really helps create awareness for Mayo Roscommon Hospice, and all the proceeds will help us continue our palliative care service to families in our communities,” says Laurita Blewitt from the Mayo Roscommon Hospice fundraising office.
“For anyone who is wondering what the weekend involves, they should come along to the launch warm up trail and get a flavour of the scenic view. It has a rich tapestry of ancient heritage sites, unique villages, and beautiful landscape,” said organiser Greg Kelly.
The trail is graded moderate to hard and is made up of a mixed terrain of road, farmland, forest paths, and bog roads. Attractions along the way include early monastic settlements in Balla, a sixth century castle at Doonamona, Clogher Heritage Cottage, and the world famous Ballintubber Abbey. “The festival programme includes two great days of guided walks, visiting heritage sites, and hearing the local myths and legends from our experienced guides,” said organiser William Igoe.
You can register now online at www.iregister.ie/Croaghpatricktrail/ More details can be found by visiting www.clogherheritage.com/cpht_dev/festivals html
